The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports successfully concluded Education Month 2025 under the theme “Innovate. Inspire. Transform. A Reimagined Education for All.” Events across the Virgin Islands included leadership conferences, classroom initiatives, science fairs, debates, and athletic championships. The month celebrated learning, innovation, and community collaboration, highlighting the Territory’s dedication to an inclusive and forward-thinking education system.
The National Security Council (NSC) convened a special meeting this afternoon under the chairmanship of His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Daniel Pruce, in light of the prison outbreak at His Majesty’s Prison, Balsam Ghut on Saturday evening during which two inmates were discovered missing namely, Jose´ Almestica and John Burgos, both U.S. Virgin Islands residents.
The Government of the Virgin Islands is pleased to announce that the transition to its newly redesigned government website has officially begun.
The Virgin Islands commences its 71st Emancipation Celebration with the Traditional Torchlight Procession followed by the official opening ceremony of the Neil Frett Festival Village, later today.
Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism, Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith, has been honoured as a regional leader who continues to shape, elevate and redefine the Caribbean’s story.
The Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation leads the Virgin Islands’ efforts to uphold international standards in financial services, strengthen regulatory reforms, and combat illicit finance. Through engagement with global partners, the Ministry continues to reinforce the Territory’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and sustainable economic growth.
The Environmental Health Division has announced the recall of Morbier Cheese, suspected to be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, which has been linked to cases of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). The recall affects Morbier AOP 45JOURS cheese, with specific batches having the following lot numbers: 36110, 31304, and 33206. Consumers are advised to refrain from consuming the recalled products and return or dispose of them immediately. Symptoms of contamination include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Affected individuals should seek medical attention. The Ministry of Health and Social Development is monitoring the situation and providing further updates.
The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports will launch the 2025–2026 academic year with Professional Day and the Summer Institute under the theme, ‘Full S.T.E.A.M Ahead: Future Focused, Student Led.’
On March 2nd, a concert was held to honor the life of Hamilton Lavity Stoutt, the Virgin Islands' first Chief Minister. The event featured performances of his favorite songs, tributes, and video presentations reflecting on his contributions to education and development. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley made special presentations, and after the concert, H. Lavity Stoutt Day was observed on March 3rd with wreath-laying ceremonies at his gravesite. Premier Wheatley, Opposition Leader Ronnie Skelton, and his daughter Peggy Stoutt laid the wreaths. The celebrations emphasized Stoutt's lasting impact on the Virgin Islands.
On World Press Freedom Day, we celebrate the essential role of press freedom in protecting democracy, human rights, and good governance. The day serves as a reminder of the need for governments to uphold their commitment to press freedom and reflects on the sacrifices made by journalists, many of whom have lost their lives pursuing the truth. This year's theme highlights how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping media, journalism, and information. While AI can enhance investigative reporting and content creation, it also presents risks, such as spreading misinformation and censorship. In the Virgin Islands, where a vibrant digital media ecosystem thrives, it is crucial for media outlets to uphold truth, integrity, and accountability, ensuring that journalism continues to serve the public good.